If you wish to convince someone close to you to quit, don’t tell him/her that smoking is harmful, or a waste of money: he/she is already aware of the fact that nicotine is unhealthy or a waste of money; in fact smokers probably know that more than you! Smokers don’t just smoke for pleasure. Above all, they smoke because they are nicotine-dependent and consider themselves incapable of living without tobacco.

If you try to force a smoker to give up tobacco, he/she will feel pressurized and will probably smoke more on the sly...

It is essential that he/she realizes all the benefits that result from quitting smoking. Tell him/her about the various methods available to help, introduce him/her to ex-smokers. Be patient and understanding: it takes time to convince oneself to smoke that last cigarette.

When dealing with a person close to you who just recently stopped smoking, you must show understanding if you wish to support him/her. Always keep in mind that a smoker going through cessation is « experiencing pain ».

Never try to minimize the difficulties by repeating that quitting is easy, that many people before him/her have succeeded. On the contrary, be encouraging and congratulate him/her! Say how proud you are and how healthy he/she already looks. It is important to stress on how better he/she looks.

If he/she doesn’t talk about smoking, you should avoid the subject too. On the other hand, if he/she tends to be obsessed with the idea: don’t hesitate to talk about it freely.

Try to spare any unnecessary pressure during the cessation period. Nevertheless, do whatever you can to make his/her life easier, more pleasant.

If he/she is irritable, try anticipating potential worries. Do your best to avoid rowing and even if he/she is wrong, just grin and smile. Suggest activities when you get the impression he/she is getting restless, go out, exercise together.

Isn’t it amazing to see how brave it is to stop smoking?

 

Don’t hesitate to discuss it together!